Mahwah Couple Accused Of Ripping Off Wayne Shoppers In Veterans Charity Scam

WAYNE, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Police in a Passaic County town say a married couple impersonated a veterans charity at a local supermarket last month.

Investigators were tipped off by the president of an actual charity.

As CBS2's Alice Gainer reported, the sticker on the door of Jan and Steven Toms' home reads 'hospitalized veterans,' but police say the pair was anything but.

"It's probably one of the lower things that I've seen. You know, come on these guys and girls are out there serving the country," said Wayne police Detective Capt. Laurence Martin.

The husband and wife were arrested after police said they falsely impersonated the 'Adopt A Soldier Platoon' charity.

Police said pictures show the duo presenting false documents to Stop And Shop in Wayne to appear to be part of the organization.

They set up a table outside of the supermarket in the Preakness Shopping Center and collected money from shoppers.

"A large amount. We don't know what it was because it was probably a busy day," Martin said.

The couple was released on summons complaints and will have a later court date.

No one appeared at their address in a Mahwah trailer park. A next door neighbor said he doesn't know them well but knows they rent the place.

Stop And Shop customers were outraged.

"It's deplorable. It's disgusting," Kristen Heller said.

"Very disrespectful, and to take advantage of people in a town like this where people are always very giving," Melanie Mintz added.

Wayne Police said other local departments are looking into whether or not the duo defrauded shoppers in other towns.

Many people told CBS2's Gainer that they'll think twice about donating to future charities set up outside of shopping centers.

"Unless I'm really sure, like Salvation Army at Christmas time. I give to them, but otherwise very leery," Don Boonstra said.

"It will definitely make me think before giving, which is sad because so many people are willing to give," Mintz said.

And some are apparently willing to take.

Stop And Shop has not responded to a request for comment.

The charity 'Adopt A Soldier Platoon' condemned the alleged crime.

"If these allegations are true, these people have shown a total lack of moral fiber and character in a way we find despicable. Instead of serving our country they are stealing from the very people we work hard to support," they said.